Wrexham are ready to advance their interest in signing Fulham captain Tom Cairney now they have bid farewell to veteran striker Steven Fletcher.

As the club prepare for life back in the Championship for the first time since 1982, the Dragons are making headlines both on and off the pitch.

Lavish promotion parties and summer tours to Australia have taken the gaze recently, but In terms of refreshing their squad for the step up from League One, they are starting to clear the decks for a summer recruitment flurry.

At the heart of the club’s pre-season strategy is a strong interest in Fulham skipper Cairney, a seasoned midfielder with vast Championship experience. 

Wrexham are hoping to bring the 34-year-old to the Racecourse Ground on a free transfer once his contract at Craven Cottage expires — a move that would underline their intent to thrive in the second tier, not just survive.

Cairney, who has worn the Fulham armband since 2017, has been a key figure in three separate promotion campaigns and featured 23 times in the Premier League this season. 

A switch to North Wales would mark a new chapter after a decade in West London, but discussions are still in the early phases.

Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson is no stranger to bringing in players with top-level pedigree. 

In recent seasons, he has welcomed the likes of Jay Rodriguez, James McClean, and Fletcher — the latter of whom is now moving on.

Fletcher, 38, confirmed his departure with a heartfelt message on social media, revealing the decision was out of his hands.

“I unfortunately have to announce my departure from what I can only describe as the most magical club I have ever played at!” wrote the veteran Scottish striker.

“In my 22 years of stepping onto a pitch, I have never experienced anything like this club.”

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Initially signed on a short-term deal in September 2023, the former Premier League striker played a pivotal role in Wrexham’s back-to-back promotions, notching eight league goals this past season, despite starting just twice due to ongoing knee issues. 

His impact as a super-sub was undeniable.

“I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to come here and fall back in love with the game!” he added.

“To have had the experiences and the opportunities that this club has given me has been just incredible.

“And this group of lads are the best that I have ever shared a changing room with.”

His exit comes alongside that of goalkeeper Mark Howard, another stalwart of the club’s recent rise. 

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The pair's departures mark the end of an era and suggest that significant changes are ahead as Wrexham build a squad to meet the demands of Championship football.

Club co-owner Rob McElhenney reflected on the emotion of the moment, posting:

“They are not just players on the team. They are my friends and people I admire.”

Meanwhile, director of football Humphrey Ker praised Fletcher’s professionalism and legacy:

“Now, after two glorious years in his company, I'm even more in awe of him, on account of his abilities, his leadership and friendship.

“Man who's given me moments of joy that'll last a lifetime."

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